Regardless of whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Georgia has something for everyone. With its temperate climate and beautiful scenery, Georgia is a perfect vacation destination for those looking to escape the cold up north or just get away from it all. The state also offers diverse attractions from bustling city shopping to outdoor recreation. To make sure that you don’t miss a thing when you are planning your vacation to the state, pull out your map of Georgia and make sure that you circle these five cities.

1- Savannah:Built back in 1733, Savannah, Georgia was originally founded by settlers from England. Through the years since it was first built, Savannah has been the home to many important historical events. It survived both the Revolutionary War and The Civil War and has grown to be one of the state’s most popular vacation spots. Known for its beautiful architecture and southern hospitality, visitors can take a step back in time. Museums in Savannah offer opportunities to explore ships, air planes, and railroads. While visiting, don’t forget to stop by the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum to honor the father of the Civil Rights Movement in the city.

2- Augusta:Opportunities for both learning and recreation abound in Augusta, Georgia. Famous as the home of the Master’s Tournament held each year at the Augusta National Golf Club, the city is a golfer’s paradise. Augusta also offers numerous historic homes and museums and galleries to peruse. If getting outside and enjoying the outdoors is more your style, trails and kayak tours are available in the area for a little taste of adventure.

3- Macon

Known as the “Song and Soul of the South, “Macon, Georgia is rich in history and culture. The city itself is its own museum with streets lined with homes showcasing picturesque architecture. The city also has a rich musical history with numerous theatre productions or concerts held year round headlining all types of music from symphonies to jazz. Learn about African American History at several locations including the Tubman African American Museum, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, Douglass Theatre, and the Washington Memorial Library

4- AthensThe fifth largest city in Georgia, Athens has a population of approximately 115,000. If traveling with children, make sure to visit the World of Wonder Playground in Athens and let the kids unwind and blow off a little steam. If you are still looking for an opportunity to enjoy the sunshine abundant in the state, stop by the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. These 313 acres of preserve run by the University of Georgia is open to the public and offers trails for both serious joggers and those just looking to get lost in nature. If sports is your passion, don’t miss the opportunity to join with thousands of avid fans in cheering on the football team of the University of Georgia during the fall football season.

5- AtlantaDespite being the capital of Georgia and the state’s largest city, Atlanta is the perfect combination of a bustling metropolis and laid back southern living. With so many things to do and places to visit, vacationers could easily fill an entire travel itinerary with attractions in the Atlanta area alone. Some of the most popular places to visit include:

Georgia Aquarium

World of Coca-Cola

CNN Studio Tours

High Museum of Art

Atlanta Zoo

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Centennial Olympic Park

Martin Luther King Jr. National History Site

Margaret Mitchell House and Museum

Each of these attractions can not only provide hours of fun but can also provide an opportunity to learn something new. In addition, if you are looking for thrills and chills, consider spending a day at Six Flags Over Georgia. This theme park offers over 100 acres of rides, attractions, and shows for every member of the family. The Six Flags White Water attraction is also available to help you stay cool while playing under the sun. With numerous water slides, pools, and play areas, the park offers a refreshing way to beat the heat.

Obviously, opportunities for fun, learning, and adventure abound in the great state of Georgia. With equal doses of excitement and charm, this southern gem is a popular vacation destination for travelers from all over the world. With cities full of historic landmarks and exciting attractions, Georgia is a vacation destination not to be missed.

Article Courtesy of Chuck Withers of the Two Guys Wine Blog. when not cruisng the globe looking for the perfect Shiraz, Chuck divides his time between a house in Los Angeles and a House in Phoenix Arizona. Follow him on Twitter @twoguyswine